"There was some contention over Theo's inclusion but I think the experience will help him in South Africa without a doubt," said Pearce. "Hopefully he can now walk out in South Africa in a year's time with this experience.

"He'll know what it's like to take a penalty in a penalty shoot-out, he knows what it's like to play in sudden-death matches and in a major final.

"Theo knows what its like to be involved in tournament football now. He has been to the World Cup with the seniors but he never actually played.

"It's important that he didn't get caught in noman's land in international football where he didn't get any experience."

Pearce added: "I would be very excited about Theo. The future is very rosy for him."